SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Springfield Falcons will be partnering with a familiar NHL franchise next season. Early Friday afternoon, Team officials announced a new multi-year affiliation agreement with the Arizona Coyotes. The Coyotes will replace the Columbus Blue Jackets, the team with which the Falcons have been affiliated since 2010.

The move marks a return of the Coyotes organization to Springfield, as the then-Phoenix Coyotes were partners with the Falcons from 1996 to 2004. Coyotes General Manager Don Maloney said that they are happy to be back.

“Springfield is one of the best hockey markets in the AHL, and a great environment to develop our top prospects. We’re looking forward to a great relationship with the Falcons,” Maloney said.

The Coyotes are currently affiliated with the Portland Pirates, which are in eighth place in the East division. The Falcons are currently in ninth.